Winnipeg 
Just south of Thompson, Paint Lake Provincial Park offers a quintessential northern Manitoba escape, where rugged Precambrian Shield scenery meets a sprawling lake filled with islands and sheltered bays.
Credit: Travel Manitoba
Fall brings cooler days, quieter surroundings, and brilliant colour to the boreal forest, making it an especially rewarding season to explore.
Here are five reasons to add Paint Lake to your autumn travel plans.
1. See the boreal forest dressed in fall colour
Autumn transforms Paint Lake into a landscape of yellow and gold. Tamaracks and aspens brighten the forest, creating a striking contrast with evergreens, rocky outcrops, and the blue water of the lake. Follow trails such as the Coffee Cove Hiking Trail or explore the area around Liz Lake for a closer look at the changing northern landscape. Bring a camera and leave extra time for scenic stops, because the mix of forest, rock and water makes fall photography especially rewarding.
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2. Explore a lake of countless islands
Credit: Travel Manitoba
Paint Lake is the heart of the provincial park. Its countless islands, secluded bays and rugged shorelines create plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the scenery from different perspectives.
A walk along the shore can reveal quiet beaches, rocky viewpoints and sweeping views across the water.
Moose can also be spotted among the jack pine, trembling aspen and spruce that characterize the surrounding Precambrian Shield landscape.
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3. Enjoy excellent fall fishing
Fishing is one of Paint Lake‘s signature outdoor experiences. Anglers can head out in search of walleye and northern pike, while the park’s boat launch and marina make getting onto the water convenient. Cooler fall days offer a peaceful setting for fishing, with colourful forests lining the shoreline and fewer summer crowds. Even for those not fishing, the marina and waterfront offer another way to enjoy the lake’s expansive northern setting.
4. Make it an overnight northern escape
No need to rush home after a day of exploring. Paint Lake Campground has 86 campsites and six yurts, offering options for visitors who want to extend their stay surrounded by boreal wilderness. The campground area also includes modern washrooms, shower facilities and easy access to the marina, boat launch, and nearby services.
The main campground remains open into September, while Lakeview Campground stays open into October, although some services may be reduced after Labour Day. The park’s yurts are available only until early September, so check current operating dates and services before planning an overnight fall stay.
Paint Lake Lodge offers lakefront and lakeview cabins for those who want more comfort.
5. Pair your trip with Pisew Falls
Credit: Travel Manitoba
Turn your Paint Lake getaway into a bigger northern road trip with a visit to Pisew Falls Provincial Park. Located farther south along PTH 6, Pisew Falls makes a natural addition to an autumn itinerary through the Thompson region. A short walk leads visitors toward views of the powerful falls, where rushing water, rocky terrain, and surrounding forest create a dramatic fall scene.
Pisew Falls is about 29 km from Paint Lake, and the Paint Lake Marina is about 41 km away by road.
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Trip Planning – Paint Lake Provincial Park
With colourful forests, hiking, fishing, wildlife and dramatic lakeside scenery, Paint Lake Provincial Park offers plenty of reasons to head north this fall. Whether you visit for a scenic day trip or turn it into an overnight getaway, autumn brings a quieter, more colourful side of this northern Manitoba favourite.
When: Open year-round, activities vary
Where: Provincial Road 375, Thompson, MB
About 35 km, 25 min drive from Thompson.
Approximately 735 k, about 7 hrs drive from Winnipeg.
How Much: Vehicle Pass: Casual $16.50 (valid for three consecutive days)
Daily $9.50 (valid until midnight on the date of purchase)
